Bears' Jeffery Simmons: fans' orange tribute was 'amazing'

Jeffery Simmons’ social media timeline told him of the plan by Bears fans Sunday night: to wear orange to welcome him to his first game at Soldier Field.

When the defensive tackle ran out of the tunnel wearing his trademark orange sleeves, he looked around and saw the same hue worn by many in the stands.

“That was amazing …” he said after the Bears’ 27-24 win against the Buccaneers. “I’m very appreciative. … The fans were amazing today, especially in the fourth quarter when we really needed them. …

“That was pretty sweet to see coming out of the tunnel there.”

He said he underestimated the impact playing in his new home would have on him.

“It was amazing to run out the first time at Soldier Field,” he said.

Simmons finished the game with one sack and four tackles despite being double teamed, in his estimation, “99% of the day.”